Nico Osteria finds smooth sailing in Chicago

A reservation at Nico is tough to get, but lucky walk-ins can score a seat at the kitchen counter.

Doug Fogelson

The first thing you notice after entering Nico Osteria is two stunning hostesses who greet you with a warmth you rarely get at a hostess stand. And while they ask if you have a reservation, you’re greeted again by a smiling, dapper gentlemen who appears to have jumped off the pages of GQ. It catches you a bit off guard because it’s rare to be welcomed this genuinely anywhere.
Later on, after being seated, you notice that Mr. GQ is a front-of-the house manager who frequently ...

Register to view this article

Registering for Premium Content on Restaurant Hospitality will give you INSTANT access to invaluable articles and media content that industry professionals rely on. You will have access to our special reports, feature articles, and industry analysis. It’s FREE, easy and quick.